By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has expanded the state's spongy moth quarantine to include La Crosse County, following data showing the invasive insect's establishment there. This marks the first expansion since 2023, bringing the total number of quarantined counties to 54 out of Wisconsin's 72.
Spongy moths, originating from Europe, are known to feed on over 300 tree species, posing a significant threat to Wisconsin's forests. The quarantine primarily affects businesses such as plant nurseries, Christmas tree growers, loggers, and sawmills.
These entities must secure compliance agreements with state or federal officials, certifying their products are free of spongy moth, before transporting them to non-quarantined areas.
Residents within quarantined counties are also advised to exercise caution when moving outdoor items. Spongy moths lay egg masses on various outdoor objects, with each mass containing up to a thousand eggs, creating a high risk of spreading the pest.
“If you are going camping or heading to your cabin, check your gear before leaving to ensure you aren’t carrying spongy moth egg masses or caterpillars with you,” said Brian Kuhn, director of the Plant Industry Bureau at DATCP. “This is very important if you are headed to areas in far western Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Iowa where the spongy moth population is low. A county can be infested without showing immediate damage and it is important for everyone to practice diligence in order to keep this invasive pest from damaging more of our state’s plants and forests.”
The quarantine restrictions remain crucial, even if visible tree damage is minimal. Spongy moths have been spreading westward since their introduction to North America, and their caterpillars can cause severe defoliation, particularly in oak trees.
DATCP urges residents and businesses to remain vigilant and adhere to quarantine guidelines to prevent further spread of this destructive pest.
For additional information, individuals can contact Northern Field Services Unit Supervisor Jennifer Oestreich at (715) 701-1375 or jennifer.oestreich@wisconsin.gov.
Photo Credit: pexels-heru-vision
Categories: Wisconsin, General